Might also have something to do about first jobs. Being in a single location helps form connections, find mentors and learn the culture (as in how to actually get stuff done) more easily than remote. Older employees already have that knowledge and can just do their own work fairly easily.
Might also be social as well - younger people are used to forming social circles with the people around them. Again, older employees are more likely to already have a social network outside of work, or family.
Everybody who wants to go back to the office - are you being honest? Are you looking to get more work done then you can at home? Or, do you miss the socialization of the office and the external activities? I assume nobody is looking forward to the commute again…
Don’t be surprised if those who did just fine at home are a little grumpier and less tolerant then they were pre covid, particularly in group/open offices.
Yeah it’s exciting and new and ooo look it’s like a sitcom!!! Yeah, no thanks, I’ll have a social life outside of work on my own terms.
But I understand how Gen Z feels I think. I’m glad I got that experience and now know I don’t actually want it.